Preparing for Power Outages
Power outages can happen at any time due to weather, equipment failure, planned utility work, or other emergency situations. Outages may range from short interruptions to longer-lasting disruptions depending on the cause and restoration conditions. Preparing ahead of time helps protect your safety, comfort, and property.
Preparing for an Outage
Build an Emergency Kit
Include items that help you manage during a loss of electricity:
Flashlights and extra batteries
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio to receive updates
Portable phone chargers and power banks
First aid kit and essential medications
Non-perishable food and water for several days
Cash (ATMs may be unavailable without power)
Stay informed!
Use the following links to stay informed and prepared for an outage.
Prepare Critical Equipment
Identify devices in your home that rely on electricity (medical equipment, sump pumps, refrigerators, etc.).
Keep medical device batteries charged and have a backup power plan if needed.
Get in contact with your electricity provider, like Xcel, about programs for customers with medical devices.
Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup if you use heating or power generators.
Know Kow to Manually Operate Systems
Practice opening garage doors manually and make sure all family members know how to safely operate key systems without power.
Set Up Communication Plans
- Sign up for communications from your energy provider, schools, and local authorities.
- Sign up for DougCoAlert emergency notification system, and other notifications from the City of Lone Tree.
During an Outage
Stay Safe & Informed
- Use flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire risk.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain food temperatures.
Conserve phone battery by minimizing usage and relying on portable chargers.
Follow updates from your utility provider’s outage status tools or alerts.
Traffic Safety
When traffic lights lose power, treat intersections as four-way stops. Come to a complete stop and take turns before proceeding. Watch for pedestrians and emergency vehicles. Avoid unnecessary travel if possible.
Reporting & Tracking Outages
If you experience a power outage:
Check and report your outage directly with your electricity provider via their website, mobile app, texting options, or customer service line.
Do not call 9-1-1 to report a power outage — reserve that number for emergencies where you need police, fire, or medical assistance.
After Power is Restored
Unplug appliances and electronics to prevent damage from power surges.
Throw away perishable food that has been at unsafe temperatures (above 40 °F for two hours or more).
Restock your emergency supplies to be ready for future outages.
Safety Tips and Considerations
Generator Safety
Use generators only outdoors and well away from windows, doors, and vents to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Connect appliances directly to generator outlets using heavy-duty extension cords — never plug a generator into your home’s electrical system.
Downed Power Lines
Always assume fallen power lines are energized. Stay well clear and report them immediately to your utility provider or emergency services.
Wildfire Risk
Power outages may occur during high fire danger conditions, including extreme heat, wind events, or utility-initiated shutoffs designed to reduce wildfire risk. During these situations, it’s especially important to take extra precautions.
Watch for fire restriction notifications and weather forecasts for risk of wildfires. Learn more about wildfire preparedness and mitigation.